Astrological Impact: When Venus transits in Gemini...

Venus is all about love & beauty, and seeking sensual pleasures.  The goddess of love leaves its place of dignity in Taurus on 24th April 05:03 BST/12:03 HKT, and will dance into the mentally stimulating Gemini territory until 19th May.  Venus in Gemini is predominately peregrine, a wanderer who is independent in her stride.  However, she will gain dignity by term when she reaches approximately 12 to 17 degrees, which translates roughly to 3rd to 8th May.  Admittedly, the effect is rather minimal.  

Venus in Gemini by transit is a period of intellectual curiosity, playful flirting, and dynamic communication in relationships, as Gemini is ruled by Mercury. However, various aspects during her sojourn in Gemini will modify the way Venus in Gemini displays herself.

Outers or No Outers

For those who look at the outers, Uranus will enter Gemini  on 26th April, so until the end of April, Venus is in a separating conjunction to Uranus.  Matters of love and pleasure may take on an unexpected turn.   For those who do not look at the outers, Venus in Gemini in itself already has this connotation.  It's interesting to further note that Venus also sextile Neptune in the last week of April, so take promises with a pinch of salt.  If you are lucky, perhaps this could manifest into something romantic, and it may get intense with Venus trine Pluto.   If you don't look at the outers, similar message can be gleamed from the end of April to early May, when Venus is in an approaching sextile to Saturn, so it's not all frivolous fun, Saturn provides you the opportunity to gain some level of support or wisdom from the experience.  This aspect becomes exact under the full moon in Scorpio on 1st/2nd May.  More on this full moon in a later post.

Mutual Reception

From 3rd May, Mercury enters Taurus, which is in mutual reception with Venus in Gemini until 17th May.  Intellectual curiosity blends in with sensual stability.  In relationships, communication brings practical outcomes.  Creative projects can benefit from combining objective thinking with sensual awareness.  This mutual reception ends on 17th May, 14.5 hours after the New Moon in Taurus on 16th/17th May.  From this point, Venus is in an approaching sextile to Mars, creating a dynamic, intellectually stimulating and physically exciting period, blending playful curiosity with direct action.  Spontaneous romance is favored, where sparks get ignited at lightning speed.  Just a day before Venus leaves Gemini, Mars enters Taurus, where he gains dignity by triplicity, not to mention being in Venus' sign of dignity, just in time for Venus to reciprocate the love when she saunters into Cancer the next day.  More about this in a later post.

Image from CanvaPro

Taurus Season is here! Sun Enters Taurus on 20th April 2026

Sun enters Taurus on 20th April, 02:39 BST/ 09:39 HKT

It's Taurus Season

The Sun leaves the fiery, fast-paced sign of Aries and steps onto the lush and steady soil of Taurus.  Taurus is a fixed earth element ruled by Venus, the goddess of sensual pleasure, love & beauty.  This is the season to slow down, to settle in, and to reconnect with Mother Earth.  If Aries is about igniting a spark of an idea, Taurus is about building the solid foundation that allows this idea take root and thrive.  We are waving goodbye to the impulsive nature of Aries (though not completely, as we still have Mercury and Mars in Aries).  Begin to appreciate a slower and more intentional pace.  We are reminded to be methodical; patience has its merits.  This month, give yourself permission to stop sprinting and start strolling. Relearn the importance of indulging in the simple pleasures of life.  To go back to basics.  Spend time in nature and reconnect with the physical world.  Hug a tree, walk on grass, wade in a stream, listen to the bees buzzing, smell the sweet scent of flowers, feel the gentle warm breeze combing through your hair.  Shine through the lens of Taurus, cultivate stability and reliability.  Assess your tendency to become overly fixated on outdated ideas.  Tips on boosting your Taurean energy

Aries is still around....

The Aries stellium may have given you the incentive to push forward, but let's not forget Saturn is also in the mix - Saturn is the metaphorical wall, an obstacle to clamber over.  Saturn in Aries is in fall.  Being rash has its price to pay.  It's not all about being brave and courageous.  Charging for the sake of charging will take you nowhere and you will end up wasting your valuable energy and resources.  Seek out those who have trodden on similar paths previously.  Gather your information and make an informed choice.  By the time Sun enters Taurus, Saturn is in a partile triple conjunction with Mercury and Mars.  More reasons to stay grounded and be aware that manifestation does work, but it takes more than pure visualization to bridge the gap between fantasy and reality.

Outers or No Outers?

For those of you who look at the outers, we are approaching the final week of having Uranus in Taurus, which, for the past seven years, have been shaking up your Taurean house.  I like to think of it as a necessary spring clean, an extended period of spring cleaning, as the matters needing a change require time, patience and willingness to clear out. Taurus is likely to put up a fight, as changes are not particularly welcomed by this fixed earth sign.  For those who do not look at the outers, we still need to get ready for a spring clean.  Why?  Let's focus our attention on Venus, the ruler of Taurus, who will remain in this stubborn sign for four more days before this goddess in rulership will enter the frivolous mutable air sign of Gemini (also Uranus' next destination for the next seven years).  During this week, ponder on what you need to keep, and what you need to clear out.  Remember Taurus can be a hoarder, holding onto unnecessary physical items and mindsets that have passed their expiry date.  Perhaps seize this moment to really ask yourself what needs to go in order to make room for the new?  

The other outer worth mentioning is Neptune in Aries.  I don't know about you, but I personally don't work well with this planet.  Even the supposed 'positive' aspects do nothing but bring confusion and delusions.  To be honest, I disagree with the notion of 'just go for it' under the previous Aries stellium, as we have Neptune fogging up the true 'weather', misleading 'warriors' to trudge into swamps and quicksand.  Don't charge like an Aries, though you will, as Neptune is in Aries.  What's more, Neptune and Mercury were in a conjunction. The delusional side of Neptune is pure dangerous in believing 'I can do it!'  Faith with no basis will have you running forward and then you find yourself falling down a cliff because the fog has been clouding your judgement.  Better to be safe than sorry.....For those who do not look at the outers, look at Mercury in Aries, it's peregrine, thought processes are not particularly strong but fast, is this a good combination?  Look before you leap.

New Moon in Pisces 2025

On 28th February 2025 00:45 GMT/08:45 HKT, we have a new moon in Pisces.  

What I find baffling about this new moon is the hype about the 7 planetary alignments: Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune.

I can't for the life of me, understand how we can have these 7 planets in alignment when Venus is in Aries, Mars is in Cancer, Jupiter is in Gemini, Uranus is in Taurus, and the remaining 3 planets in Pisces (Mercury, Saturn and Neptune).

I reached out to my astro buddies and they couldn't understand it either.  I thought could it be because visually, they are in alignment?  However, I don't think we can see Saturn, Uranus and Neptune with the naked eye.....

Anyway, if anyone can shed some light on this matter with me, I would fully appreciate it!

Back to the new moon in Pisces.

I confirm we have 3 planets plus the sun and moon in Pisces at this new moon.  With such a concentration of Piscean energy, plus the traditional ruler, Jupiter, square this new moon, spiritual matters are brought to the fore.  Neptune, the modern ruler, conjunct Mercury (4-degree orb) and Saturn (loosely with an orb of 8 degrees), perhaps this is a time for us to seriously incorporate spirituality into our lives.  

Pisces is a mutable sign with a loose boundary, so if you find it hard to say no to people, this is a time to reassess your own needs against the needs of those around you.  You need to come first.  When you are happy and well, then you are in a better position to take care of others.  Pamper yourself at this time, though don't overdo it!  Keep a healthy balance between relaxation and procrastination.

The square to Jupiter could warn us of the potentiality of being too idealistic of our current ideas.  Pisces tend to be romantics and find it hard to keep both feet on the ground.  Being creative is one thing, but being unrealistic is another.

Full Moon in Leo 2025

  

Full Moon in Leo on 12th February 2025 at 13:53 GMT.

Mercury conjunct the Sun (Moon's ruler) under this full moon.  Therefore, Mercury is combust so our rational mind cannot function at its best.  During this emotionally heightened period, as our mental faculties is not at its strongest, so any ideas born under this time may have to deal with potential blind spots later on. 

Uranus, the planet of surprises and instability, activates this full moon axis via a dynamic square.  Changes may be inevitable and driven by emotions.  

Saturn is in a separating trine with the retrograding Mars.  it is not the perfect time to act, though it's rather tempting to do so.  Wait for Mars to go direct on 24th February and Mercury to be out of the Sun's rays before executing any long-term plans.

Apparently, trimming your locks under a full moon helps it to grow longer and thicker, especially that it's in the sign of Leo - think about the lion's mane!

Image from CanvaPro

Flowing with Moon in Gemini

The Moon is currently in Gemini and will remain for 2.5 days until 11th May.  

Gemini is an air sign, with a hot and wet temperament.  

When the Moon is in Gemini:

Be chatty but not gossipy

Be flexible but not unpredictably changeable, otherwise, people around you can't keep up!

Be communicative without having verbal diarrhoea

Over the next 2.5 days, the moon will form the following exact aspects with neighbouring planets:

• Trine Pluto at 2 degrees - watch out for deep and intense emotions surfacing, deal with them 'the Gemini way' with simply an acknowledgement ('I see you.  You are merely a part of my memory and has no power in my current life.') and feel if that is enough to let it go.  If not, then it's time to try other methods to make peace with your past.

• Sextile Mars at 6 degrees 45 mins - feeling enthusiastic in what you have to do, flow with it, get as much done as you can.  Being competitive (but not too much!) can help you achieve more than usual.

• Sextile North Node at 13 degrees 59 mins - feeling particularly receptive to the nature of how destiny works, how coincidental events occur, bringing a heightened level of awareness to your psyche.

• Square Saturn at 17 degrees 23 mins - negative emotions may envelope you, making you feel isolated and depressed, flow with it and see what hidden thoughts and feelings crop up, deal with it simply by acknowledging its existence and attempt to move on.  This is a great time to be aware of any unhealthy habits and relationships that need to be changed or ended.

• Sextile Chiron at 21 degrees 13 mins - a chance to work with some wounded feelings from the past

• Sextile Mercury at 24 degrees 21 mins - flow with this aspect by connecting with others through words, you can speak it, write it, or sing it!  The most important thing is you have fun while doing so.

• Square Neptune at 29 degrees 12 mins - flow with the confused nature of this aspect.  Perhaps feelings of emotional insecurity may come up.  Deal with it the Gemini way as before.  Gemini is highly rational and can be at war with the highly emotional nature of Neptune (modern ruler of Pisces).  Reason with whatever inner voice that crop up.  Use rationality.  'What is the probability of that happening?'  'Is that really the end of the world even if it does happen?'

We have accumulated so much emotional junk over the years.  Whenever they see a gap, they squeeze through to reunite with us on a conscious level.  Thank them for being with you all this time, but acknowledge that they no longer serve you in any way.  Let them go and make room for something else for joyous and positive.

Image from pexels.com/designecologist

 

New Moon in Aquarius 2024

 

Happy Lunar New Year!

Gung Hei Fat Choy!

2024 is the year of the wood dragon 🐉.

Did you know that the first day of the lunar new year always falls on an Aquarius new moon?

Aquarius has two rulers: Saturn (traditional) and Uranus (modern).

Thinking outside the box is what I would normally use to describe Uranus/Aquarius, but the concept actually incorporates BOTH planets: Thinking outside (Uranus) the box (Saturn).

It is Chinese tradition to respect our elders, to acknowledge what they have already built before us. As a descendant, we pay gratitude to their hard work, and then look for ways to add our own personal touch to the existing structure. To me, that’s a lovely mix between Uranus and Saturn! Therefore, every lunar new year, we are reminded of this concept under the Aquarius new moon.

This current new moon forms a square with the modern ruler Uranus so expect changes to your plans. The traditional ruler Saturn is in a mutual reception with Venus, also exalted Mars sextile Neptune, and Mercury square the abundant Jupiter. Unexpectedness can always be overcome with flair and style. Just keep calm and carry on celebrating!

#gungheifatchoy #happylunarnewyear #lunarnewyear2024 #newmooninaquarius2024

Pondering Pisces

Today, we shared our own career experiences with a 17 year-old who is about to apply for university.  My partner mentioned a few things which made ME think:  If I had heard that when I was 17, my career path would have been so different.....or would it?  My Mercury in Aries does have s a hidden rebellious streak so perhaps I would have done the same thing as I did in the end.....who knows?  It's fun to ponder on the other path not taken....

Photo courtesy of Khoa Vo pexels.com

Meal to celebrate the summer solstice 2021

 Today, my astrology buddy in Hong Kong cooked up a delish meal according to the planets.

Our Midsummer's Eve menu

All guests were served with coconut water in its original container, representing milk from Mother Earth!

For starters, pea soup was served to honor the Moon and Mercury.  This yummy pea soup (Moon) was made with coconut milk (Moon) seasoned with mint (Mercury).  We had a potato and turnip (both lunar ingredients) pancake but I was too busy eating that I forgot to take a photo of it!

Then we had an interlude of honoring Jupiter with fresh figs and chestnuts glazed with maple syrup.  Don't they look like a work of art?!

Honoring Jupiter continued with another dish:  chopped chestnuts with cloves, nutmeg, sage and maple syrup.

Then we moved onto the Sun and Mercury with this sassy salad:  tangerine (Sun) and fennel (Mercury) drizzled with a olive oil-based dressing.

Continuing with the solar theme:  rice with cashew nuts and raisins, flavoured with cinnamon.  We also had cucumber (Moon) and celery (Mercury) salad, but I forgot to take a picture of it!

Lunar dessert:  peaches, papaya and pears with roasted coconut chips, drenched in coconut sauce.

Sparkling water with lemon slice (Mercury!)

Thank you for your hospitality Kimberly!  We also had a great astro conversation with another fellow astrologer, Tom, who gave us many food for thoughts!

Mercury in Gemini, Mercury goes retrograde May 2021

Mercury is the messenger god, ruling communications and transportations.

It enters its sign of dignity (Gemini) on 3-4 May and will remain there until 12th July.

Normally, Mercury stays in a zodiac sign for just over 3 weeks.  However, with this messenger planet going retrograde on 30th May, it will remain in this strong position for an extended period of over 2 months.

While Mercury is in Gemini, expect more active cerebral activities (ideas buzzing in your head, planning projects),  and smoother communications (willingness to share thoughts and opinions, chatting on the phone/internet).

When Mercury reaches 24 degrees 43 minutes on 30th May, it will begin its retrograde motion and moves backwards, retracing its steps until it reaches 16 degrees on 23rd June, where it will resume direct motion again.  

Astrologically, it will affect those with planets in Gemini and other mutable signs (Sagittarius, Virgo and Pisces) between 16 to 24 degrees.  

The usual advice given on the internet include:

- avoid signing contract (renewing is fine), if cannot be avoided, scrutinize the small print

- refrain from expensive purchases

- expect traffic delays

Personally, I experience the above even when Mercury is in direct motion anyway.

What I do notice when Mercury goes retrograde, and it triggers your natal planets,  is that communication with others become more sensitive than usual.  The chances of misunderstandings are higher.  So double check and triple check your instructions are being correctly processed.  Be extra polite in your choice of words.  When in doubt add an emoji to lighten the mood.  Be humble.  Double confirm your facts before you launch into a heated argument......

Mercury goes retrograde 3 times a year, each time for around 3 weeks.  It is a period of readjusting the way we communicate.  If we are too blunt and crass, then try to be more refined and subtle in the way we interact with others.  In Gemini, we can learn to be short and simple in our choice of words.  Be direct.  Say what you mean.  And most importantly, INTERPRET in a simple way.  For example, if your husband wants to add a pinch of salt to your soup, then it means the soup is bland.  It does not mean you are a lousy cook, good for nothing, can't even manage a simple task of putting a decent meal on the table........  Your cooking skills and your self esteem are not interlinked.  And if you are the husband, perhaps compliment on other aspect of the soup before you say 'I think adding a pinch of salt will bring out the flavour even more....'

What kinds of difficulties do you run into during a Mercury retrograde?

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New Moon in Virgo 2013

The New Moon in Virgo at 13 degrees 4 minutes on 5th September (12:36 BST) signals our monthly opportunity for a new start.  With this month's chart ruler, Mercury, also in Virgo (which is one of its own signs), we have a clear message to focus on Virgoan concerns, e.g. to look after our physical health, to start a new diet plan, to increase efficiency in our workplaces, to organise a new daily routine, to communicate logically and analyse methodically.

The New Moon oppose Chiron in Pisces allows us to come face to face with our past traumas.  It is a time to nurse/acknowledge those old wounds, to clear out (Virgo) those negative emotions and release them to the Universe (Chiron in Pisces). 

This is also a time where we could be presented with a chance to push ourselves beyond our comfort zone, which is a way to allow our souls to transform and grow (New Moon trine Pluto; inconjunct Uranus). However, we may feel inadequate to take on this challenge (Saturn square Mars) and would much rather stick to the tried and tested (New Moon trine South Node).  If we remind ourselves that we are learning on Earth school, that this is merely just another 'class' or life lesson for our souls to go through in order to move one step closer to our solar quest, then it would seem less daunting to push ourselves towards that change.

Look out for planets, points and angles between 12 degrees 4 minutes and 14 degrees 4 minutes in mutable signs (Pisces, Virgo, Gemini, Sagittarius) making significant aspects to this new moon.  

This New Moon exactly oppose my Sun in 8th.  I definitely have been feeling the urge to purge some unwanted junk which is hindering me from moving forward.  

What is this new moon doing in your chart?

Solar Eclipse in Taurus 2013

This is the second of a series of three eclipses which conjunct the South Node, reinforcing the message that it is a time of release.

This solar eclipse, at 19 degrees Taurus 31 minutes, is an extra powerful new moon.  Its conjunction to the South Node signifies a need to release the old to make room for the new.  However, Taurus can be stubborn and is too lazy to make changes.  Mars and Mercury also conjunct this new moon, so use your energy to patiently research into your new plans.  Pluto trine Mercury and Mars can help us to accept external changes.  The Plutonic force can be a source of motivation instead of a threat.  The ruler of this new moon, Venus, is in mutual reception with Mercury, so relax and think about what it is that you value in life.  

One of the archetypes of Taurus is the Builder.  This new moon provides the fertile ground to build something new.  As the saying goes, 'Rome wasn't built in a day', Taurus is about gradual changes and working steadily, step-by-step, to create a solid foundation.  

The Taurus stellium (Sun, Moon, Mercury, Mars, SN) is in opposition to Saturn and the North Node.  This may manifest as someone who appears to be manipulating you or blocking your progress.  It may well be their way of showing you support or just pointing out your blind spots.  Listen to their words of wisdom then use your own judgement to decide what to do with their opinions.  

Eclipses are like alarm clocks, reminding you to 'wake up' and stop procrastinating - what is it that you have always been meaning to do but never got around to doing it?  Check which house this eclipse falls in your natal chart.  

Solar eclipses have a slightly larger orb (3 degrees) than standard new moons (1 degree).  If you have planets, angles or points in Taurus, Scorpio, Leo or Aquarius between 16 degrees 31 minutes to 22 degrees 31 minutes, then this eclipse is likely to have a significant impact in your life.

New Moon in Aries 2013

Aries marks the start of an astrological year as the Sun entered this fiery sign back on 20th March.  

On April 10th 9:36am GMT, the Solar God and the Lunar Goddess are due to meet up in the sign of Aries at 20 degrees 40 minutes, symbolising a new beginning and giving us a fertile ground to sow our seeds of intentions.

This dynamic new moon is conjunct Venus and Mars (also the ruler of this new moon), giving us plenty courage, energy and passion to try new things, to explore new avenues and to bravely face any challenges that life has in store for us.  

We still have Saturn trine the Neptune-Chiron conjunction pair, giving us a practical platform to heal.  Jupiter in Gemini (ruled by Mercury in Pisces) may overload us with a wave of information, where we could get too ambitious and wish to start many projects at once, thinking we are completely ready to deal with everything (Jupiter square Chiron).  Take everything one step at a time and prioritise - what makes your heart sing the most?  Do that first, save the rest for later.  

Pluto is due to go retrograde 2 days after this new moon, thus tightening its square to Uranus once more.  External threats continue to be present in the background, just remember that Pluto is there to help us create a core Self that is conducive to fulfilling our destiny and not to destroy us.  Tap into Aries' warrior energy and centre yourself in the eye of the hurricane.

Stirring from Slumber

With 7 planets in Pisces as we speak (Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Neptune and Chiron), the stars are definitely reflecting a loud message back to us mortals roaming on earth - to have compassion, to tap into our emotions, to be sensitive to the needs of ourselves and others, to dissolve our boundaries and merge with the Universe......  

Being a Pisces (Sun, Mars, South Node and a host of minor planets), I'm feeling rather at home in this nebulous space - too at home.  I can't wait for these planets, one by one, to move into Aries.  I can't wait for the surge of Arian enthusiasm and energy to wake us all up again (not saying the Pisces stellium is a bad idea, I'm just feeling rather spaced out and am looking forward to a change of scenery). 

Mars (and the Moon) will be the first to enter the dynamic territory of Aries on 12th March, followed by the Sun on 20th March, marking the start of a new astrological year.  The Goddess of Love, Venus, will then dance into Aries on 22nd March.  Leaving Mercury, who will join the crew next month on 14th April.  We will sure to get a shock of some kind as each of these planets pays a transient visit to Uranus in the coming weeks.  

Image courtesy of [image creator name] / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Full Moon in Virgo 2013

Full Moon is a time when the Sun is in opposition to the Moon, thereby fully illuminating the lunar terrain with solar energy.  Previously hidden information is likely to be exposed at this culmination point in the lunar cycle.  Any wishes made or projects began at the time of the New Moon has reached the stage where evaluation is called for before continuing on with the next step of the plan.

On Monday 25th February 2013 at 20:26 GMT, we have a Full Moon in Virgo at 7 degrees 23 minutes.  

There is a Pisces stellium - Neptune, Sun, Chiron, Mars and Mercury, with Venus joining the party six hours after the Full Moon.  The natural ruler of this stellium is also within the cluster (Neptune), giving us a strong message of focusing on the more spiritual side of life and to have trust in the Universe.

The solar rays shine on the Virgo moon, bringing its shadow qualities to the fore, e.g. being a stickler, a perfectionist, a critic.  As an earth sign ruling the 6th house of routines, Virgoans prefer to stick with what they are familiar with, though they can be flexible if necessary (it is a mutable sign afterall).   The dispositor of the moon, Mercury, is retrograding in Pisces, therefore, both dispositors of the Sun and Moon are in Pisces, giving us an added emphasis in utilising the Piscean energy at this time, even if it may seem uncomfortable to the more practically-minded individuals.  

This Full Moon is in a mutable T-Square with Jupiter in Gemini (besides being a traditional ruler of Pisces, it is also disposited by Mercury in Pisces - further reinforcing the Piscean message).  Jupiter is a happy-go-lucky planet, but in a T-square, we tend to get overly-optimistic, overly-arrogant and basically over-doing things.  This is a learning opportunity for us to be spiritual (Pisces) in a practical (Virgo) world.  Moreover, it is a time to see with eyes of compassion and faith (Pisces) rather than through critical eyes and harsh judgments (Virgo).  There are facets of life which simply cannot be explained logically.

Where the Virgo Moon falls in your chart is the area of life where you may need to be less critical, less of a perfectionist - let go and relax!  Where the Pisces Sun /cluster falls is the area of life where you may need to get a grip on yourself and not give in to procrastination and pessimism.

With such a strong Pisces message, perhaps we could think about other people by focusing on service, e.g ask the Universe how you can serve on this mortal realm.  This is a time to learn about living a spiritual life in a practical way.  As Teilhard de Chardin once quoted, 'We are not human beings having a spiritual experience.  We are spiritual beings having a human experience.'

How Romantic is Valentine's Day 2013?

With a host of planets (Mercury, Mars, Chiron and Neptune) in the romantic sign of Pisces, expect the day to be filled with love and sweetness.  However, with Chiron involved, perhaps there is a need to overcome any past trauma which can hinder you from expressing your love for another.

This Piscean brigade may seem emotionally overwhelming, but luckily, we also have Venus in Aquarius, giving us a touch of detachment and logic.  It's not all about the heart but also the head.  Venus in Aquarius can also indicate an unconventional way of relating to your object of affection.  

Happy Valentine's Day to you all!

Image courtesy of [image creator name] / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Mars in Pisces, Venus in Aquarius 2013 - My Mars & Venus Returns

On 2nd February 2013, Mars enters Pisces at 01:53 GMT followed by Venus entering Aquarius an hour later (at 02:46 GMT).  I'm particularly interested in these transits because they coincide with my Mars and Venus returns.  Astrologers have mixed views on the importance of the returns of these personal planets compared to the Sun and the bigger planets, e.g. solar returns, Saturn return, Jupiter return.  However, they can give us information on the finer details of how our Venusian and Martian energies can be used.

Our Venus return chart can give us information concerning our love relationship, our social life and also financial matters for the year ahead.

Our Mars return chart can indicate the direction of our personal drive for the next two years.  Where are your personal passions placed?  Where are you likely to exert your energy?

For me, my both my Venus and Mars return has Mars as the chart ruler (Aries ASC), with Mars in Pisces in 12th and Venus in Aquarius 10th.  The usual interpretation is a period of procrastination and listlessness, as Mars (action) is diffused in Pisces and also in the 12th house.  However, its conjunction to Neptune and Chiron can be particularly healing, especially that Chiron is getting some grounding from a trine to Saturn.  As with any astrological interpretation, you can work with the positive or negative aspects of the configuration.  Awareness is the key.  If you are aware of an upcoming period of lethargy, then conscious effort can help overcome, or at least, mitigate this tendency, especially if you have enough earth in your chart.  So in my case, I can be a lazy butt or I can turn my attention inward and go on a soul-searching journey or do something for the good of the collective.

Natally, I have an out-of-sign Venus-Jupiter opposition, but in this year's Venus return chart, Venus is trine Jupiter.  This is another feature to look out for in predictive work.  For example, with a Sun-Saturn square natally, conflicts with authority figures is one possible manifestation.  However, if during a transit/return, this pair is related in a more harmonious way, e.g. Sun-Saturn trine or sextile, you're more likely to find that during the period in question, relating to figures of authority is smoother than usual.  This is possibly because you are more receptive to their teachings and accept that the limits they impose on you are for your ultimate benefit, rather than feeling restricted by them.  So, for me, my Venus return could indicate that my values, however wacky, are more likely to be accepted, as I'm less likely to exaggerate and become arrogant.

As transits, Mars and Venus only have a transient effect, as they only remain in a sign for approximately 3 - 5 weeks respectively.  This is a time to think outside the box (Mercury in Aquarius until 5th February) and to have compassion for others (Mercury in Pisces from 6th February; Mars, Neptune and Chiron also in Pisces).  Motivate yourself to act in selfless ways.  Make your mark by focusing on service.  What can you do to serve?  Doreen Virtue, angel therapist, often emphasises the importance of focusing on service.  Once we are doing what we are meant to do on this planet, we feel confident with our actions and what's more, the money will flow to you naturally.  Remember money is merely an energy exchange.  It provides the means to allow our physical selves to live comfortably on this planet so we can go on serving others.  The Universe doesn't want you to suffer.  If you're not thriving, think about what is hindering you, chances are that it is yourself.  Are you afraid of moving beyond your comfort zone?

Image courtesy of [image creator name] / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

New Moon in Capricorn 2013

The new moon in Capricorn on 11th January at 19:43 GMT gives us a new start on practical matters.  

Capricorn is concerned with responsibilities, duties, resources, realities and power management.

Where in your life do you need to 'grow up', to be more mature, to take on more responsibilities, to regain your power?

We have a stellium in Capricorn - Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus and Pluto.  

With the new moon in a close orb to Mercury, we are likely to plan ahead with caution and in pragmatic ways.  Set your goals but don't expect to achieve them overnight - go about them step-by-step.

We also have Venus conjunct Pluto, which activates its square to Uranus.  External changes may make you see life differently.  Old values are cleared away, making room for the new.

The ruler of this new moon, Saturn in Scorpio, is square Mars in Aquarius.  Proceed with caution with new ventures.  Saturn quincunx Jupiter, as optimistic as you may be, take a step back and research into it first.  Have patience.

Where does this new moon fall in your chart?

New Moon in Sagittarius 2012

On 13th December, 8:42am (GMT), under the New Moon in Sagittarius at 21 degrees 45 minutes, we are given the fertile ground to begin a new adventure.

Last month, under the Scorpio new moon, did you do some serious introspection?  If so, I'm sure you are ready to purge away unwanted, negative patterns that are holding you back from living your life to the full.  

There is a gradual feeling of rebirth, especially with the Sun, Mercury and Venus leaving the intense Scorpio and moving into the territory of freedom-loving Sagittarius on 21st November, 11th and 16th December respectively.  However, with Saturn in Scorpio in the backdrop for another 2.5 years, let's not get complacent and think that we have sussed out everything - it is only the beginning.  The Scorpionic lesson will continue for at least another 2 years.

Under this new moon, we are encouraged to think about what we truly want out of life (Mercury in Sagittarius conjunct Venus-NN in Scorpio conjunction).  The ruler of this new moon, Jupiter, is in mutual reception with Mercury and both planets are in opposition to one another.  There is a tendency to be over-confident with one's opinions (Jupiter in Gemini) and a need to watch our mouths, as Mercury in Sagittarius often reflects a likelihood of being blunt.  

As with all new moons, it is the start of a new cycle, hence the perfect time to make wishes.  I love Kathy Rose's New Moon in Sagittarius video (http://youtu.be/dkg1XHfmA3Y), where she talks about not being afraid to reach for a higher goal, after all, Sagittarius is ruled by the lucky and expansive Jupiter.  Go with the flow and not be afraid to receive. 

Solar Eclipse in Scorpio 2012

The new moon in Scorpio on 13th November at 22:09 (GMT) is the second solar eclipse this year.  This time, it is visible across the South Pacific Ocean. With  a shadow period of  3 hours and 13 minutes, the effect of this solar eclipse is likely to last for approximately 3 years thereafter.  (http://eclipse.gsfc.nasa.gov/SEmono/TSE2012/TSE2012.html,
http://eclipse.gsfc.nasa.gov/SEplot/SEplot2001/SE2012Nov13T.GIF)

For the technicalities behind eclipses, take a look at my blog entry on the previous solar eclipse: http://cosmicpotential.blogspot.hk/2012/05/solar-eclipse-in-gemini-2012.html

This eclipse sensitises the point at 21 degrees Scorpio 56 minutes, so any subsequent transiting planets passing over this degree will re-activate the message of this eclipse.  (Allow an orb of 3 degrees for eclipses.)

This solar eclipse conjuncts the North Node, which traditionally symbolises a positive new beginning, bringing hope and good fortune.

With a strong Scorpionic background (Sun, Moon, North Node and Saturn in Scorpio), the essence of this eclipse is: To begin a chapter, one needs to close another.

This solar eclipse in deep and profound Scorpio is encouraging us to bring light to the dark, to become aware of the hidden aspects of life and be willing to face and release our demons lurking down in the abyss of our psyche.

If you are willing to release your demons and make room for the new, then this solar eclipse can support your spiritual journey in your mundane existence on this planet.  After all, we have Neptune (becoming direct 3 days before this eclipse) trine Saturn, and Chiron (becoming direct a day after this eclipse), sextile Saturn,  so we are encouraged to make practical use of spiritual teachings to restructure your everyday living. 

Mercury, retrograding in Sagittarius, conjunct the North Node, which further emphasises the need for introspection, but in Sagittarius, be optimistic and adventurous about it.  This jolly Mercury is also sending a trine to the Uranus-Pluto square, injecting a touch of optimism into the ongoing global disturbances, at least we are beginning to see the philosophical side to it all.  

Natal Saturn devouring personal planets

In Greco-Roman mythology, Saturn (Cronus) devoured most of his children for fear of dethronment by them one day, thanks to his father, Uranus' curse.  Well, that is what you get for castrating your own dad....

Any planets, especially personal ones, in close challenging contacts with natal Saturn, is akin to having them swallowed by Saturn.  The outward manifestation is that of feeling restricted emotionally (if involving the Moon), inhibited mentally (involving Mercury), displaying self-sabotaging behaviour (involving Mars) and having a suppressed personality (involving the Sun).  I know this is the case with me.  Thanks to my Saturn-Sun and Saturn-Mars contacts, I am an overly-cautious individual who is too afraid to break new grounds.  My Saturn in Virgo swallows my Sun and Mars in Pisces' creativity and replaces it with rules and structures.  I can draw - but only if I have something to copy from.  Creating something from thin air disturbs me - like drowning in the ocean.  Give me something to copy and I am confident that I can do a great job.

Saturn becomes easier to negotiate with age.  Life experiences allow us to see why we need Saturn in our lives - to give us a framework to live in, to adhere to a set of rules so the world doesn't become too chaotic, to give us enough consistency and stability for us to get on with our mundane lives.  As always, moderation is the key.  When life gets too predictable and too structured, it makes one want to break free from the mould and engage in more adventurous tasks.  

How can we break out of Saturn's grasp?  Going back to the myth, it was Jupiter/Zeus, one of Saturn's offspring, who released his siblings from the pit of Saturn's stomach.  Therefore, take a look at your natal Jupiter and the house it rules, for there lies the key to unlocking those personal planets within Saturn.  For me, trusting the Universe and having faith in my own talents (Jupiter in Cancer 12th, ruling 5th ) soothes my innate fear of expressing myself truthfully (Saturn in Virgo 2nd house oppose Sun & Mars in Pisces 8th). 

With outer planets, the dynamic is like in a tug-of-war.  In the myth, Saturn castrated Uranus but Uranus cursed in return, instilling fear in Saturn.  Saturn sticks to the tried and tested whereas Uranus blazes a new trail.  Saturn forms boundaries and Neptune dissolves them.  Saturn builds and Pluto demolishes.  The key here is to find a middle ground to permit both parties to exhibit their natural skills and talents.  Uranus provides us with new ideas but we need Saturn to manifest them into form.  Neptune can clear away unnecessary barriers but a certain level of defense is healthy to keep the ego intact.  Pluto can help us de-clutter ruthlessly and thereby clearing out outdated junk from our system.

Has Saturn swallowed any of your personal planets?  How can you release them?

Image: FreeDigitalPhotos.net